Time for Canadian government to resolve issues with First Nations

Idle No More protest at Lansdowne West and The Parkway

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As Unitarian Universalists from across the Kawartha region, we share with many Canadians the beliefs that all persons have inherent worth and dignity, and that human relations should be based on justice, equity and compassion. We have called on Prime Minister Stephen Harper and MP Dean Del Mastro to make serious, sustained and systemic efforts towards resolving issues with First Nations.

Of course, a meeting needs to go beyond one session. It should build on previous efforts and define a mutually just vision and active process for urgent resolution. These issues include Aboriginal rights, poverty, community development, and related environment and land concerns. They also reflect the omnibus budget Bills' serious implications for the future.

There are now spreading protests, new court cases, and growing international scrutiny. First Nations and their allies' concerns are echoed by Auditor General's reports, our courts and the UN Special Rapporteur. Surely there is a better way than confrontation. We Canadians continue to receive the land and benefits of treaties (where they exist) -- we also need to pursue our responsibilities and the nation-to-nation relationships within them.

We urge all parties to address these profound issues. Adopted by Canada, the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples can help inform this conversation.

We seek a path that upholds our highest moral principles, mutual respect and justice, and the legal principle of the honour of the Crown.